Ultrasound (US) is an imaging technique using sound waves transmitted from a handheld transducer, which can image most body parts.

We have invested strongly in the best equipment and scanners to allow enhanced detail and better depiction of any abnormality. Our sonographers are constantly updating their skills and are strongly committed to education and training.

Ultrasound relies heavily on the expertise of the sonographer and most sonographers begin life as a radiographer and undergo years of specialist training. Newer techniques involve using doppler physics that can detect direction of movement, which is used for imaging blood vessels and inflammation. We can ‘hear’ blood flow and heart beats. However, ultrasounds can’t image the lungs or see inside bone. It may also show reduced detail for some deep structures.

Depending on the area scanned and the complexity of the study, your appointment will vary in time from 15-45 mins. The area being studied will need to be uncovered and reasonable pressure applied to the transducer to see inside. The sonographer will need to be reasonably close to you. Should you have any concerns regarding any of the above please let us know prior to your appointment.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound that examines different organs or muscles, including Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound, for the shoulder and knee. This ultrasound requires that the handheld transducer (probe) makes contact with the skin, so you will be required to make the area of investigation accessible. At times this may require you to change into a gown.

We also perform ultrasound screening for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH), performed as early as six weeks of age. Our sonographers have extensive experience in paediatric hip ultrasound and screening for DDH, with same-day service reflecting the needs of the child, their parents and the referring clinician.

Obstetric & Gynaecological Ultrasound

This is an ultrasound that requires the transducer (probe) to make contact with the skin. You may need to change into a gown to make the area of investigation accessible. In some gynaecological or obstetric examinations, an internal examination may be required, which involves a specially-designed probe being inserted into the vagina. The sonographer will discuss this with you if required and only proceed with your informed consent.

Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound

An ultrasound that obtains images at the 11+3 to 13+6 week stage of a baby’s development. All babies have a thin layer of fluid at the back of the neck, and research has shown that an increase in the amount of fluid can correlate to an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Trisomy 21 (Down’s Syndrome).

During this examination, the sonographer will confirm that you are pregnant, detect your baby’s heartbeat, determine single or multiple pregnancies, examine the baby for major defects, confirm a due date and try to take a picture of the baby for you to take home. In a small number of cases, an internal examination may be required. This involves a specially designed probe being inserted into the vagina. The sonographer will discuss this with you if required and only proceed with your informed consent.

What you need to know

Preparation

For some scans or procedures, you may need to undergo special preparation.  Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound requires you to have special blood test (at a pathology clinic), which should occur one week before your scan. Specific information will be given to you at the time of booking. If you have any concerns, please ask our staff or consult your referring doctor.

Time required

Most ultrasounds will take approximately 20-30 minutes. Your allocated appointment time is likely to be 15-30 minutes. For an Obstetric & Gynaecological Ultrasound, your allocated appointment time is 30-45 minutes. For a Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound, your allocated appointment time is likely to be 45 minutes.

Risks

Ultrasound does not emit ionising radiation and is not known to have any harmful effects. Please advise the sonographer if you have any allergies to latex or skin sensitivities.

Results

The report from our radiologist will be forwarded to your doctor as soon as possible. If there are any urgent findings, a radiologist will notify your referring doctor immediately.

What do I need to bring?

  • Referral from your doctor
  • Medicare card (if applicable)
  • Healthcare card/Pension card/Student card (if applicable)
  • Previous x-rays/scans (if applicable)

What we need to know

Pregnant/Breastfeeding

Please advise us if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.

Medications

Please advise us of any medications you are taking. They may affect the timing of your appointment.

Allergies

Please advise us of any allergies.